During my 30+ years of being an educator of fifth grade through university pre-service and in-service teachers, my passion for social and environmental justice influenced my teaching. Before entering the field of formal education, I was employed by the U.S. Forest Service in Quinault, WA as a naturalist. There were many nights of listening for spotted owls to determine where forest corridors were needed to create connections of fragmented habitats. Later, I joined the fire crew. I have always believed that my work as a forest firefighter prepared me for the classroom.
I have an undergraduate degree in botany from Connecticut College with a minor in dance. After time in the classroom, I pursued my Ph.D. at the University of WA, Seattle in science and multicultural education. My passion for teaching about environmental and social justice was supported by my graduate work.
I have moved into a part-time high school teaching position that includes life science, health & wellness, mindful yoga, a changemakers & solutionaries elective, and I’m acting as an advisor for the Civil Rights Team and the Environmental Club. When not in my classroom, I am working with Maine teachers as a Solutionary Micro-Credential Program Coach. In the words of David Orr, “Hope is a verb with its sleeves rolled up.” I look forward to working with teachers as we roll up our sleeves and support students as they implement solutionary projects.
When time allows, I enjoy gardening, walking in nature or curling up with a good book.
